Gold Medalist Blames Agent as Finances Dwindle, Health Deteriorates

Gold medalist Irene Kemunto Mogaka has called upon well-wishers to help her get back on track after her health deteriorated.

Kemunto, 37, decried her left chest has been affected, and she can no longer accelerate her pace.

She also noted she has not been unable to sleep on her left side since.

“The left side of my chest was diagnosed with a gap and it has taken me almost one year I have not been able to sleep on this side. Also if I am running up a hill I can’t increase the pace which is crucial in a marathon,” 

Gold medalist Irene Mogaka

The athlete urged the government to intervene and regulate sports agents in the country who she claimed take advantage of athletes.

“In one race, I won Ksh2,428,000 (USD 20,000), but I do not know what happened, and I was not paid,” she lamented.

Additionally, Mogaka noted that due to delayed funds, most athletes face family issues that demand financial favours, and most end up depressed.

“There are many challenges we face. I have had family issues and I could use counseling,” she recalled. 

At her home in Kisii county, the athlete parades her collection of trophies reminiscing on her days as a marathoner.

She used to run short races but progressed to long races, then the marathon. 

“The one I remember more is the Vienna City Marathon. They played the national anthem, and I was very happy despite finishing at position two,’

Some of the notable races Kemunto has participated in include the Melbourne Marathon in 2011 (winner), Vienna City Marathon in 2010, Mumbai Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon in 2008, and the New Delhi Commonwealth Games in 2010. She emerged first runners-up in all three races. 

“I want to win at least three races before I retire. When I get the help to train, I will fly Kenya’s flag higher just like Eliud Kipchoge has done,” she vowed.  conclusively.

Athlete Irene Mogaka at the 19th Commonwealth Games Day